The Big Bend Natural History Association (BBNHA) was established in 1956 as a private, non-profit organization. The Association's goal is to educate the public and increase their understanding and appreciation of the Big Bend Area and what it represents in terms of our historical and natural heritage. BBNHA champions the mission of the National Park Service of interpreting of the scenic, scientific, and historic values of Big Bend and encourages research related to those values. The Association conducts seminars and publishes, prints, or otherwise provides books, maps, and interpretive materials on the Big Bend region. Proceeds fund exhibits, films, interpretive programs, seminars, museum activities, and research.

Among the Association's past and present projects are the following:

• Operate book sales outlets in Big Bend National Park and Amistad National Recreation Area
• Publish trail guides, brochures and assist The Big Bend Paisano park newspaper
• Sponsor an on-going Seminar program
• Provide annual grants for research projects and administer grants and gifts received for the park
• Support the park's volunteer, Junior Ranger, and educational outreach programs